MOUNTAIN PLOVER
281. Podasocys montanus. 9 in.
No black on breast or sides, but with black hand on fop of head and a black line from bill to eye. Above grayish-brown; below buffy across the breast, white elsewhere. Mountain or Prairie Plover, as they are often and better called, are abundant on the western prairies. Like the [Bartramian Sandpiper], they do not frequent the vicinity of water, but live and get their food in the dry grass-covered districts. They are not at all shy where they are not hunted. Like all the family, they are very fleet on foot, and may often be seen chasing grasshoppers or other active insects. Their flight is very rapid, often devious and usually at a low elevation.
Notes.—A single, low, musical whistle.
Nest.—A depression in the ground, anywhere on the prairie. Eggs brownish-gray, blotched with blackish.
Range.—West of the Mississippi River, breeding north to Dakota. Winters from Southwestern United States southward.
TURNSTONE
283. Arenaria interpres. 9.75 in.